Executive Management
- Harvey Katofsky
- Founder, President & Chief Executive Officer
A highly respected leader in the real estate industry, Harvey Katofsky created a dynamic new concept with HK Lane focused on outstanding customer service, superior agent services and advanced technologies.
Prior to opening the firm, Harvey served as Senior Vice President, COO for the largest real estate company in the nation. In this role, he oversaw operations of eight Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage offices and nearly 550 sales associates in the Palm Springs area and surrounding communities. Previously, Katofsky was President and owner of Fred Sands Desert Realty. Opening their first office in 1994, he expanded the operation in the years ahead to five offices, some 350 agents and estimated closed sales of nearly $1 billion in 2003—garnering a #1 position in the market for eight years. Fred Sands Desert Realty was acquired by Coldwell Banker in 2004.
After a 20-year career as owner of a dozen pharmacies in the L. A. area, Katofsky moved to Palm Springs in the late 80s, where he opened several restaurants. During that time, he discovered a true passion for real estate and, before long, founded California Preferred Properties, which later merged with Tarbell Realty. He's also worked with developers on retail leasing and shopping center operations.
Harvey's extensive experience, knowledge of the marketplace and uncompromising values provide just the kind of leadership needed to position HK Lane at the top of the field.
- Ron Gerlich
- Principal, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer
Ron Gerlich brings to HK Lane tremendous insights and enduring expertise in the local real estate market-in fact, he has managed and trained over 1500 agents in the Coachella Valley over the past 25 years.
Instrumental in building and managing the Fred Sands Desert Realty offices from 1994 to 2003, Ron most recently served as Regional Vice President when the company was sold to Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage.
His resume prior to that is extensive and storied. From 1986 to 1994, Gerlich managed a national real estate firm in the Palm Springs area. He began his real estate career in 1975 in the resort community of Big Bear, where he was president of First Western Properties, Inc.-involved in real estate syndication groups and new home construction and land development-and Ron Gerlich and Associates.
Ron is a member of the National Association of Realtors, California Association of Realtors and Desert Association of Realtors, and is a keen investor himself with several properties in Southern California.
- Gene Darr
- Managing Broker
Gene Darr brings over 30 years of real estate experience and extensive expertise in the Desert marketplace to head HK Lanes newest office in La Quinta.
His varied background in the field includes substantial work for major home builders and national relocation companies, giving him an excellent perspective and insights that are invaluable in his current role.
Gene has been instrumental in creating and building the company's premier La Quinta office, which specializes in gated country club communities.
His extensive industry knowledge, astute attention to detail, winning attitude and approachable management style have proven to be strong drawing cards for agents interested in becoming part of Genes dynamic sales team.
- Rachel Arnold
- Director of Marketing
Rachel Arnold is responsible for maintaining the HK Lane brand identity and developing all new marketing and advertising programs- including public relations, internet marketing and social media related to real estate.
Before joining the HK Lane's management team, Rachel served almost six years as a Marketing Associate for The Vintage Club Real Estate Sales office at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, CA where she implemented effective marketing strategies to increase company recognition and drive sales. Rachel is also a licensed California Real Estate Agent.
Prior to that, she was a Management Assistant and Sales Representative for Enterprise Rent-A-Car where she directed daily operations for a rental branch and oversaw marketing, sales, inventory control, accounting, banking and customer service.
Rachel received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from San Diego State University.